The Zen zone of jigsaw puzzling

Doing jigsaws during the Christmas holidays is a long established tradition around our house. During the slow days around the winter solstice, it soothes me into state of peaceful neutrality. The mental focus is reduced to this moment, as I look at a certain piece, using its colours and shape to determine where it fits. Patience, observation and perseverance pay off in the form of a lovely, but very temporary picture to enjoy.

When a completed puzzle has been enjoyed for an hour or a day, I disassemble it and return it to the box. Then it’s time to embark on the next one. The process is repetitive and rhythmic. Find the edge pieces. Assemble the frame.

Sort remaining pieces into trays by colour and subject.

Begin work on whatever part of the picture appeals at the moment. Alternate tasks at will.

Identify horizon pieces and build them across the puzzle. Shore up the edges with a second row. Take advantage of instinctive awareness of contiguous pieces. Fit these together to create islands and peninsulas. Set them aside to be added in when they can be connected to the whole.

Cycle among the various tasks at will. Move around the puzzle physically to get new perspectives. Rise and stretch frequently, to avoid getting stiff.

Work near a window, so that daylight can fall on the puzzle. In those long cosy dusks, use plenty of well-placed lighting. Relax and enjoy the fireplace, the lighted Christmas tree, and welcome family members and visitors who may stop from time to time to help with the puzzle.

Give the eyes frequent breaks by looking out the window or around the room.

Come and go. Enjoy the process. There’s no rush, and this is not meant to be work. All too soon, the final puzzle will be put away and the season will close until next Christmas.